Walt Disney’s live-action remake of the beloved 1937 film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is finally hitting theaters. But this anticipated release is not without its controversies. The film’s lead, Rachel Zegler, has faced a wave of online criticism, with some questioning her Colombian heritage for the role. This backlash intensified after Zegler remarked that the original film feels outdated, which didn’t sit well with some fans who prefer the classic version.
Adding another layer of tension, Zegler and actress Gal Gadot, who plays the Evil Queen, stand on opposing sides of the ongoing Israel-Gaza conflict. This situation only adds to the complex backdrop of the film’s release.
The controversies might be impacting the film’s box office prospects. Originally, predictions for the opening weekend were much higher, but now estimates have dropped to around $45 million to $50 million in the U.S. and about $100 million worldwide. Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst, noted that this decline reflects a changing climate around the film.
Bob Iger, Disney’s CEO, returned to the company during a turbulent time, particularly after tensions arose over social issues in Florida. He has tried to steer the company away from political entanglements by advising filmmakers to tone down social messages. Yet, the Disney adaptation of Snow White has reignited debates that began even before the film was made.
In an effort to handle the situation, Disney has limited media access to the stars during promotions and chose a quieter launch in northern Spain instead of a major event in London.
Although Disney attempted to generate buzz by showcasing the film at fan-focused D23 conferences, critics of the film appear firm in their positions. A Disney executive remarked, “We can’t win the culture wars,” acknowledging that those protesting were unlikely to watch the movie.
Disney has a history of remaking animated films into live-action versions. Titles like Alice in Wonderland and Beauty and the Beast have been successful, each grossing over $1 billion. However, as the backlash against perceived "wokeness" escalates, more recent remakes have faced scrutiny. For example, Halle Bailey, who starred in the 2023 remake of The Little Mermaid, faced similar criticisms for not fitting the traditional image of Ariel.
The company has also dealt with boycotts in the past, notably one initiated by Southern Baptists in 1997. After Disney opposed a Florida law restricting discussions about LGBTQ+ topics, the company’s political tensions reached a peak, leading to struggles for its special governing status in the state.
With shifts in public sentiment around issues like the #MeToo movement and Black Lives Matter, the pressures surrounding the Snow White remake have intensified. As one Disney insider noted, "The culture shifted under our feet."
The story of Snow White itself presents challenges, especially regarding its traditional portrayal of dwarfs, which has raised concerns about sensitivity today. With a strong cast—Zegler, recognized for her role in Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story, and Gadot, known for her performance in Wonder Woman—it’s notable that the filmmakers sought to bring something fresh to the story.
Zegler argued in a 2022 interview that the updated film is about a woman with a richer narrative, moving beyond outdated concepts. However, her comments about the original story’s romantic tropes sparked discussion among fans who cherish the classic version.
Amid these debates, Peter Dinklage, known for advocating for people with dwarfism, criticized the project, questioning why the classic story was being retold at all. He called attention to the need for sensitivity in representing characters with disabilities, which has resonated with ongoing discussions.
The Israel-Gaza conflict has further complicated matters, with Gadot’s military background and support for Israel clashing with Zegler’s pro-Palestinian stance. This tension is palpable and has a significant impact on how audiences and fans perceive the film.
Review summaries reflect this mixed reception: critics have noted its “adequate” execution yet pointed out the risks of playing it too safe. As the film unfolds in theaters, audiences will grapple with its themes and the context surrounding its release.
This remake serves as a reminder that films not only entertain but can also evoke strong emotions and conversations, reflecting the world we live in today.
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